Disclaimers; I don't own Sailor Moon, she - And the rest of the Senshi - belong to Naoko Takeuchi *All bow* Harry Potter and any of the characters therein also aren't mine. *Sniff* That honor belongs to the great J.K. Rowling. *twaps those who aren't' bowing*
Go this out kinda quickly, as it was written anyway... No point in delaying I guess. ^__^;; Enjoy! (Or not as the case may be.)
THE SENSHI WHO LIVED
"Suffering is one very long moment. We cannot divide it by seasons. We can only record its moods and chronicle their return. With us time itself does not progress. It revolves. It seems to circle round one center of pain. The paralyzing immobility of a life every circumstance of which is regulated after an unchangeable pattern, so that for us there is only one season, the season of sorrow."
-- Oscar Wilde.
'De Profundis'
Chapter 1
'Memento Sorstis.'
"I'm afraid I cannot say that I've ever seen this student... I doubt she is one of ours."
Snape's head lifted to pin Dumbledore with a semi disbelieving look. He frowned, apparently in doubt as he stared at Usagi, still unconscious on the couch.
"Not one of ours?" he said carefully.
"Precisely that, Severus. I make a point of knowing all of the students here in Hogwarts and I have not seen this girl before."
He continued after a pause, almost on afterthought.
"Where did you say you found her?"
"On the outskirts of the Forbidden Forest." Snape gritted out. He had already told the Professor that; twice. For all anyone could know though, the crafty old man was doing it to aggravate him further.
"Ah yes," Dumbledore gave a brief nod, "So you said."
Snape narrowed his eyes, but said nothing more. Dumbledore did not ask what the potions professor what he had been doing stalking the grounds at night either. Perhaps he thought it better that he remain in the dark. And Dumbledore was not someone easy to deceive, though most of the time he preferred to keep the facade of absentminded, kindly, old man, he held the power and prestige as one of the greatest wizards of modern times. It was an accurate title. All those who knew him were aware of that fact.
"And...The cat?"
"Followed me."
Snape gave Luna a glare, but she refused to cringe. Dumbledore only nodded as he came to a halt before Luna.
"Well, Lady... It seems you and your trust have gotten yourselves into a spot of bother."
Snape watched as the cat pounced onto the desktop to peer up at Dumbledore curiously. He caught the glimmer of intelligence again. The same glimmer the cat had shown earlier - as she sat, curling the ebony tail around herself, casting a look at the unconscious girl on the sofa not far away. Dumbledore smiled.
"She'll be fine. Just a little fever it seems. Nothing to be alarmed about."
He reached down to stroke the feline and Snape waited for the hiss he knew was coming. He had attempted to extradite her earlier, when he first arrived at Dumbledore's office and the cat had a fit, spitting at him, her fur fluffing out in rage.
She did not hiss at Dumbledore.
He blinked as he watched her arch into the touch, a low purr coming from her small form. She stood and coiled around the hand gracefully, moving against the gentle strokes. The white hared professor continued to smile absently.
Tiring of the spectacle, the potions master cleared his throat. Dumbledore cast him a sidelong look, curiosity in the twinkling eyes.
"About the girl," Snape pressed. He looked mildly agitated.
"Hmm? Oh yes. We'll have to do something about that won't we?"
"Clearly," came to muttered undertone.
"Madame Pomfrey's first, I think. In the morning we'll find out where it is she came from."
Snape looked mildly horrified as he paced the confines of the room. His voice remained level though it seemed to Luna that he wanted to raise it.
"You're not suggesting she stay here."
Dumbledore's reply was still soft, but the authority in it was unmistakable. It was something Luna recognized immediately, she had spent much time in royalty, and though not a royal, Dumbledore held an air of nobility about him. It told of trials overcome, and battles won; through wit, not brute force.
"Only for the night, Severus. Not to worry..."
There was a word from Dumbledore and Luna watched as a stretcher was conjured beneath Usagi. Slowly Usagi floated into the air on the frame as Severus whirled to go, rebellion in his step and stance. Ember eyes fastened on the Headmaster with an alarmed look.
Only for the night?
No.
They needed a haven.
Hogwarts was the only place they could be safe.
That was why they were there.
No.
They could not leave.
"No."
The adamant voice halted Snape in his tracks and Dumbledore's head snapped up to search the room. Finding no one other than Snape, the unconscious girl and a black cat; his eyes rested in the feline; they were intensely bright it seemed, behind those spectacles.
Snape was back inside the room, also staring at Luna intently. The door shut soundlessly behind him in a gesture. He glared at Luna who stared at Dumbledore.
The silver-bearded man stood once more, keeping his gaze riveted on the cat, walked around the desk to face her and bent afresh. She watched in return, in an unblinking amber gaze. Snape - unnoticed by the pair - scowled.
"Lady...?" the wizard inquired gently. There was patience and obligation in his eyes. Luna allowed him to stroke her again once, before moving away to stand. Her eyes flickered to the princess lying on the still floating stretcher.
Something in her seemed to wilt and both men present in the room saw it, and then recognized her as more than she appeared.
"No," she said again.
** ** **
He tossed the hair from his eyes and the light caught the brittle planes of his face, the jutting black brows, the dark ovals around the faded orbs - frost on blood - the sliver of cat-eyed pupils in their center. Into the room he stepped; all powerful, all knowing, confident in his terrible strength.
"Tell me," he said, his voice as mellow as butter. "Where is she?"
Luna exerted all her strength to oppose him. The illusion - if it was an illusion - faded. He looked the same, but she could see that he moved more stiffly and he winced as if it hurt him occasionally, just a twitch in his cheek.
Another surprise.
He may have been a wizard - dark and most powerful - very strong, but no more than a man. He was still human, in a way.
She glared even as a tall shape interposed itself between the dark wizard and her. Just as she had put herself between him and Usagi's hiding place.
"Who are you?"
He spoke sharply then, addressing the slim man in front of him - slender and ethereal with long white hair and startling brown eyes. He was beautiful.
Luna stumbled, aghast.
No.
"My name is Artemis," he said bluntly, though he was deathly afraid Luna knew, "And you will go no further than this."
Voldemort took another step forward, and in front of her, Artemis quailed. His presence was overwhelming. The halted movements, the grating speech , the sense of overcoming great obstacles, only added to the potency.
They had never been trained against something like that. It seemed he knew their weaknesses as well as they did. Voldermort raised a hand, his eyes like ice. Luna felt her mouth go dry as sand. Artemis fell back a pace, cowering as though he expected a strike. At that the dark Lord looked contemptuous, which struck worse than any blow.
Luna clenched her fists.
He had done nothing and already they were defeated.
"Speak," he whispered.
The fair man hesitated against the powerful compulsion.
"Imperio!"
Artemis' lips began to make the words.
Luna, still behind him, was outraged suddenly. She reached forward, grabbing onto a slim arm, trying to rouse the white cat. And Artemis gasped when she did.
They were strong.
They had a duty and they were strong.
Luna watched as he threw her a look of gratitude, dashing the mist from his eyes.
"No!" he cried, and drew himself up.
Ember and bloodstone locked and Luna could see the Dark Wizard was shocked into stillness, as Artemis showed his strength; the strength - not of an equal - but of one who would never give up. Someone who possessed as much - if not more - sheer willpower that Voldermort himself.
All in the name of loyalty, and love, and light.
It disconcerted the Lord momentarily and he halted, both surprised and intrigued, for a long time his eyes searched the pair of guardian cats, then they fixed on Luna thoughtfully.
"Perhaps the weaker will serve," he said, meeting her eyes. "Come forward. Speak to me."
** ** **
"My name is Luna," she said, without preamble. "The girl you have over there is Usagi Tsukino, and she is my charge."
Snape's eyes followed the inclination of the furry head over to the sleeping blond and Dumbledore seemed to sigh. Without a word he moved over to his chair and sat heavily, watching the cat on the desk in resignation. He looked suddenly old to her.
"I think you have a tale to tell us, Lady Luna."
The stretcher lowered itself once more onto the floor as Snape also settled himself down to wait, though he chose to remain standing. It suited him not to sit. He looked like someone who was not easy to relax, and Luna could perhaps understand why, granted the situation.
The midnight cat nodded.
"As I said, I am Luna; the guardian to the Royal family of the Kingdom of the Moon."
Snape snorted and Luna turned to give him a look at the contemptuous sound. It was not complimentary to her declaration. She was what she was, it did not matter to her whether a potions professor called Snape believed that or not. It did not change anything.
"No such thing," he derided. "The legendary Moon Kingdom is just that - a legend."
Luna found herself liking the man less and less.
"Not so."
She looked from Dumbledore to Snape, then back again. Her gaze was not quite pleading, but it held an entreaty to it that both professors could immediately see. She hoped it would be something they could not deny.
"Wizards exist," she said. "Giants, dragons, unicorns, goblins and imps... Magic... Why not a Kingdom on the Moon?"
Across the room Dumbledore chuckled. "A fine point, Lady. Please, go on."
The relief she felt at the plea was immense, and she was a little surprised at it's magnitude.
Her head dipped in inclination.
"Thank you."
Snape glowered with eyes like obsidian ice.
"I guard the royal family, an advisor to the queen-"
"Surely you're not telling us that-" Snape pointed to Usagi, "is a queen."
He looked as though the idea was so preposterous that it bordered on impossible. Luna could also see he was somehow offended too. She did not know how or when she had done that to him, or why he seemed intend on disapproving her words.
"No." she supplied.
Snape dropped his arm, seeming to relax a minute amount. Luna felt a spark of defiance as she continued. Her head lifted in pride.
"She is heir to the throne; she is Princess Serenity."
He reacted as she thought he would. With further contempt. She could see him straighten as he gritted his teeth.
"Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe you told us a moment ago, her name is Usagi."
"And it is," Luna agreed quietly, "but it is also Serenity."
There was a curious sound from the head wizard and Snape jerked his eyes form the guardian cat to him. Dumbledore was watching Usagi inquiringly; the young blond had begin to toss and turn lightly in her sleep. Her eyelids flickering. Dreaming.
"Gods and their ilk often had more than two denominations, Severus," the old wizard murmured idly. Snape spluttered, glaring from Luna to the Professor and back. He stiffened, his body taunt as a bowstring as he rounded on Dumbledore.
"Gods? What-"
"Serenity..." Dumbledore continued, "Selenity... Goddess of the moon... Any relation to our young Princess, Lady?"
Despite her situation and Snape's obvious outrage, Luna found herself smiling. As long as Dumbledore was on their side, they would be safe.
"Yes," she sighed, nodding. Snape looked appalled, obviously torn between further dismissal and outrage that Dumbledore actually believed the little black cat.
"Thought as much." The eyes behind the half-moon glasses narrowed, " Severus, do have a seat, won't you?"
Deflated and at a loss, Snape sat.
"Now, Lady... Could you tell us, why you are here?"
Why there were there? Necessity born of circumstance. Tragedy born of fate. Or perhaps it was destiny, as Luna had once instructed Usagi that it was her destiny to be who she was, that nothing or no one could ever change that. Affliction and sorrow could come as they would, and Usagi would always be cursed to survive somehow, it seemed. It appeared her eternal sorrow was preordained.
What a fool Luna had been.
She took a deep breath, balancing her hammering heart.
"Serenity is the last survivor of the Silver Millennium. She is the last... Senshi."
The wizards looked confused at the foreign word. Of course they would not be familiar with Japanese. There was a silent reprimand on her ignorance again as she halted to explain.
"Senshi - means warrior. She is the Senshi of the moon. Her guardians are- were the Senshi of the solar system. Named for the planets they represented. All Princesses."
"But why is she here?"
Snape again.
"I'm getting to that," Luna snapped.
She was nearing the end of her tether. The subject was delicate, and it pained her to talk of the Senshi as though they were long gone already. They had always been at her side, somehow helping and suggesting when needed. She valued their support, their friendship, their skills. That they were gone forever terrified her if she thought on it too much. That she had not done something to save them tormented her more so.
Dumbledore had stood again, appearing quite restless for his age. He was standing over Usagi in concern, watching her fluttering eyelids. "Were, Lady?"
Luna felt her heart lurch. How perceptive of the old man. She nodded.
"They- they are dead. There were killed by a.. a dark.. man... he looked..."
She stopped and gazed at Usagi for a long while. The Moon Princess would survive. She had to. As the last - and she was the last - it was her legacy to carry on. Luna only hoped that she would find new hope somewhere in her heart; without hope Usagi was lost.
"He was evil," she said simply at length. "He told us his name was Voldemort. That was when I knew we should come here."
** ** **
"I am Lord Voldemort. You will tell me where she is hidden."
The pressure of his will was all encompassing and Luna looked as though the weight of a tree had fallen onto her shoulders, and that she had no defense - except her innate stubbornness. She staggered away from Artemis. Her face was stark against the darkness of her hair; her hand trembled so much when she pointed that it was hard to tell where she was pointing to.
Voldemort looked into the shadows behind the defiant pair, then back to Luna, then to Artemis.
"Ah," he said. "I understand. Bring her to me."
Luna's hand dropped to her side, her heart aching with the magnitude of what she had just done. She backed further still.
"I will not," she said, her voice breaking.
The tall elven man moved to stand in front of her again, casting a glance back at his affection.
"Go," he whispered harshly. "Leave. Take Usagi. Do it now."
Voldemort lifted a hand, saying 'stay!' and Luna went still, too caught to move. He turned to Artemis. "You would dare defy 'me'!"
But the taller man just narrowed his eyes fiercely, stepping forward. "I will have my will, even over you, 'Lord Voldemort'. Go no further!"
His soft-spoken words disguised an old power that went beyond even the time of wizards, to a fallen kingdom, lost, but never forgotten. And that power shook Voldemort from head to toe. He struggled but could not move. Then, not looking at her, Artemis whispered again, "Luna, run! While I hold him I can't escape."
Luna stood mesmerized for a moment, before Voldemort moved a step, forcing all his will into moving his feet. The ebony tresses tumbled as the woman shook the power off as much as she could.
Another step, and Artemis cried out.
Luna backed away almost against her will, taking one last look at Artemis before retreating to the shadows, where a half conscious Usagi was waiting.
"Usagi!" she shook the her friend urgently and Usagi moaned in response. "You have to move Usagi! Get up!"
She glanced back to see Voldemort still moving, taking one pain filled step after another, drawing ever closer. His face as a mask of fury as Artemis slowly wilted.
"Usagi!"
Her voice was thick, as Usagi stirred at last and blinked open bloodshot eyes. They looked lifeless and glazed, but at least they looked awake.
"C'mon, Usagi!"
The blond girl blinked again, casting her gaze back to Artemis. Luna saw and tugged her to her feet.
"We must stay alive," she hissed. But Usagi was already resisting, as the innate need to help her advisor came to the forefront of her dazed mind.
"That's Artem-"
"I know! And we must go! Or this will be for nothing!"
Then another voice entered the conversation. "No, girl. You go nowhere."
They both froze, staring at the dark wizard who had a face filled with triumph and bitterness both. He was so close...
Usagi trembled, a tremor passing through her body as she took her first step forward to him, as he compelled her to.
It was so easy, simply a step, and then another. And perhaps after that, it would be all over. She could rest.
And her friends?
She frowned. Her friends... What of them?
Just a few steps forward, reach into her pocket, give him the crystal, and then freedom. The sight of that freedom, however unattainable it seemed, was something she could not give up.
And those outside... What of them? Those who were fighting for her and her survival as she stumbled closer to the enemy - the one responsible - what of them?
Just a step, and she could be free. No longer bound by destiny, fate could be damned. She would be free. All ties could be cut. Just a step....
And then, he would have what he had come for. There would be not further use for her friends.
No more. The thought was so brief, it was just a flicker, a slight change in direction, a passing movement that sent images to the deepest part of Usagi's dazed mind.
No more. What then?
Then she wavered.
Voldemort stood before her, struggling still and Usagi saw him. She saw the ruin in him. She saw the withered hands, smelt the musty scent that pervaded the room; the dry smell of aging flesh and human decay.
But he was a monster; and it was that simple turn, that brief flicker that allowed Usagi to see that. And recognize him for what he was.
She stopped.
"No," she whispered.
Artemis pushed himself to his feet, as a tiny hope flared within him - she did have the will after all. Smiling to himself, he reached beyond his despair, calling up the last reserves of his strength.
"Leave them!" he commanded, using the power as he had never used it before. It struck Voldemort like a blow and he flung up a crooked arm, the way a bird might shield itself with it's wing. A look of disbelief passed over his face. "I cannot move," he said in wonderment. The muscles in his jaw were like granite.
"Go!" Artemis screamed. "Do as you're meant to Luna! I can't hold him for long!"
Usagi had tears streaming down her face, even as Luna's own eyes filled with moisture. The Moon Princess seemed smaller, but there was a furious resolve, a determination to amend for all her failures.
"I'll fix this," she said. Then Usagi turned to Voldemort saying with simple dignity. "Nothing will stop me."
Then, Luna pulling her, she fled.
There was a faint labored jeer behind her as she ran, trying to remain lost in the task of placing on foot ahead of the other.
"Nothing? Let me tell you about my terror-guard; my Dementors... They will deal with you and yours."
An agonized cry followed not long after, and ahead of Usagi, Luna stumbled, though did not slow.
But in that instant, they both knew.
Artemis....
The echoing whisper through the air seemed to chant: "Avada Kedavra."
It was almost intangible, softer than the night breeze, but both Lunarians seemed to hear it and both were filled with a sense of dread at the words, thought they did not know why.
"I will break you!" came the scream then, as the laughter echoed behind them.
"I will find you, take the crystal, and then I will break you both!"
And they fled, panting and crying, out of the enclosure and into the night, praying that the worst was over.
Neither were prepared for the anguish - blood or sacrifice - that was to come...
** ** **
He awoke in his sweat-soaked bed, scar burning and aching with a vengeance, barely biting back the scream that had risen in his throat.
Lying there for a moment was all he could do, curled in a ball with his arms braced to ward off the sights and sounds that still resonated inside his skull. The metallic taste of blood still rung on his lips, he could still feel the splattered mud and water in his clothes.
They were all dead... those celestial warriors...
And then... they had run... Amidst all that blood...
The ivory rib sticking into the night air...
He gasped a deep breath, pulling himself from the bed, and stumbling toward the window.
Those eyes... so blank... lifeless... and that blood...
The still bodies... fuku's torn... limbs at odd angles...
Trembling hands fumbled desperately with the catch before finally managing to slam the window open.
The fear and silence... permeated the air... a mist thicker than the falling rain...
And running blood...
And that laughter... Voldemort's laughter...
Harry quivered.
He fell to his knees and rested his cheek against the window frame, trying to alleviate the burning in his scar and gasping lungfulls of clean spring air deep into his shuddering body, never even noticing the tears on his face.
TO BE CONTINUED....
In: Amissus in Hogwarts.
There are some new encounters in Hogwarts... Making some students curious... While Usagi is trapped in her nightmares, and so is Harry....
OKAY!! I'm looking for a little help with this fic... I'm new to writing HP fanfiction, and I'm terrified of getting characters OCC... I really want to get them right... So if there's anyone out there who'd be willing to give some chapters of mine a look over and tell me if they seem up to scratch character wise, I'd be eternally grateful. *Bows* HP fans who know the characters...? *Looks around*
Opening quote is taken from De Profundis - My favorite piece of writing of all time. An essay by Irish writer Oscar Wilde. De Profundus is a long affecting piece written entirely on sorrow and loss born out of his period of imprisonment. It's one of the most stunning pieces of writing I've ever read... This fic is heavily influenced by it. ^__^
'Memento Sorstis - (Latin) Remember Destiny. (Chapter title)
"Imperio!" (Latin) The Imperius curse (You all know that one from the books anyway) Imperio being the Latin for 'command' or 'demand'
Avada Kedavra - The killing curse. - it is forbidden and punishable by imprisonment in Azkaban. It is said to be unstoppable with no counter-curse, though Harry survived it as a child.
Some Replies n' stuff.... ^__^;;;
Firstly... Thank you for those reviews! *Stares in awe* Wow.... *Looks scared* I didn't think that many people would read this... Now I'm terrified though. I hope you all know that. The rest of the story is never up to the quality of the first chapter... *Sighs* Might as well plod on though.
Please leave a review, it helps authors a lot in their writing to know the someone actually respects them enough to leave a comment; however brief. (Even if it's only to tell me it sucks... I already know that though.)
*Shakes her head* Nonono... I haven't read book 5 yet either... It's not out for a while yet. I read an interview where Ms. Rowling actually said it could be delayed. *Sob* It's called Harry Potter and Order of the Phoenix.
But you see, the problem is, if the book comes out whilst I'm still writing this fic.... In the vernacular "I'm screwed."
I think I'll have it set in Harry's final year/s. Perhaps year 6 or 7.... And just call it AU instead.....
^__^
I have some people telling me that this should be Snape/Usagi... others are telling me to go for a triangle (Which I have to admit I'm partial to) others still have e-mail me with Draco/Usagi all the way... And then there's all the Harry/Usagi fans too...
*Looks dizzy*
Don't get mad anybody, or offended.... O__o;;
This fic is for me first and foremost... So, I'm gonna pair her with whomever I want to. Or not at all. This fic is not romance based. That I will tell you right away. Perhaps there will be some, but Usaig is hurt, and grieving.... Give her time people!
I'm a big Snape fan, I have nothing against him. I think he has so much depth, you could drown. I love to write him. He's so much fun! He's a snobbish, suave, shady character, and you can never tell what is going on inside his head. I adore that! *Huggles Snape*
I'm also a huge Draco fan. *Sigh* How could I not? That attitude he has going is just so.. likable. *Glomps poor Draco* And he's so magnificently flawed too. I think that's what I like best. He has flaws, lots of em'.
But, my favorite is still Harry P. himself. I is lovin' im to bits, I am. *Grin* He has so much courage, and so much heart. He's been through a significance of sorrow, and he doesn't allow it to rule him, what's there not to admire? *Bows in awe of Harry*
UtenaAnthyAntics.... *Giggle* Trust me, it's not worth begging over. But here you go anyway.
Erin Finnlaith... Thanks for the chibi chocolate Draco... Anything with that Slytherin on it has to be tasty, ne? ^__~ Hope this was okay for you. (And if you are a Draco fan, there's a treat coming up in a few chapters for you. ^__^)
EternalMoonPrincess... Wow... *Blushes* I wish... Nope though. Writing is just a hobby for me. ^__^ I wouldn't have the patience to even consider anything longer than an average fic. *Glomp* Thank you though! Lol! I'm a huge fan of Amelia Atwater-Rhodes by the way. ^_^ (And taking your suggestion into account, you're right... So, I've upped the rating a tad. Thanks!)
Teardrop, Thank you.... Now I'm curious about Hearts of Ice.... Must go have a look-see. ^__^
Cosmos.... ^__^ Yeah... I love doing that too. It might be a while before certain characters find out who she is though.
Bunny Winner.... Thank you! I'm sure your fics are wonderful... Don't put yourself down.
And to Bell and Firefly-chan... and becky, and Fate's Child (Luv the name.^_^), alexz, Amanda, nicole, andrea, elisabeth, PantherRose, LightningBug, Dilkara(Like that name too...Better than Rowling...?! I wish!)kat (He does look a little like Mamoru, ne?).... Thank you!!
craza2k... *Bows* Thank you too.... I hope the rest are up to scratch.
Sapience... *Giggles* Yes! Parvenu! I couldn't call him an outright snob could I? I like his character too much for that... Parvenu was my way of... um.. skipping around it. ^_^
Kaz... I try to keep my stuff away from 'typical' if I can. So hopefully this won't be that. *Crosses her fingers* I'm not fond of cliché... Unless it happens to be written well, which can happen too.
Finally... *Glomps Latifah* Hey girl! Whassup!? *Grin* Thanks for the review! I didn't know you liked HP... or SM! Why didn't you tell me!? Oh! And that piccie...? It's on it's way.
*Huggles n' pocky*
And maybe tell me what you think...? I'm worried about this fic going wrong.
Orin.
Go this out kinda quickly, as it was written anyway... No point in delaying I guess. ^__^;; Enjoy! (Or not as the case may be.)
THE SENSHI WHO LIVED
"Suffering is one very long moment. We cannot divide it by seasons. We can only record its moods and chronicle their return. With us time itself does not progress. It revolves. It seems to circle round one center of pain. The paralyzing immobility of a life every circumstance of which is regulated after an unchangeable pattern, so that for us there is only one season, the season of sorrow."
-- Oscar Wilde.
'De Profundis'
Chapter 1
'Memento Sorstis.'
"I'm afraid I cannot say that I've ever seen this student... I doubt she is one of ours."
Snape's head lifted to pin Dumbledore with a semi disbelieving look. He frowned, apparently in doubt as he stared at Usagi, still unconscious on the couch.
"Not one of ours?" he said carefully.
"Precisely that, Severus. I make a point of knowing all of the students here in Hogwarts and I have not seen this girl before."
He continued after a pause, almost on afterthought.
"Where did you say you found her?"
"On the outskirts of the Forbidden Forest." Snape gritted out. He had already told the Professor that; twice. For all anyone could know though, the crafty old man was doing it to aggravate him further.
"Ah yes," Dumbledore gave a brief nod, "So you said."
Snape narrowed his eyes, but said nothing more. Dumbledore did not ask what the potions professor what he had been doing stalking the grounds at night either. Perhaps he thought it better that he remain in the dark. And Dumbledore was not someone easy to deceive, though most of the time he preferred to keep the facade of absentminded, kindly, old man, he held the power and prestige as one of the greatest wizards of modern times. It was an accurate title. All those who knew him were aware of that fact.
"And...The cat?"
"Followed me."
Snape gave Luna a glare, but she refused to cringe. Dumbledore only nodded as he came to a halt before Luna.
"Well, Lady... It seems you and your trust have gotten yourselves into a spot of bother."
Snape watched as the cat pounced onto the desktop to peer up at Dumbledore curiously. He caught the glimmer of intelligence again. The same glimmer the cat had shown earlier - as she sat, curling the ebony tail around herself, casting a look at the unconscious girl on the sofa not far away. Dumbledore smiled.
"She'll be fine. Just a little fever it seems. Nothing to be alarmed about."
He reached down to stroke the feline and Snape waited for the hiss he knew was coming. He had attempted to extradite her earlier, when he first arrived at Dumbledore's office and the cat had a fit, spitting at him, her fur fluffing out in rage.
She did not hiss at Dumbledore.
He blinked as he watched her arch into the touch, a low purr coming from her small form. She stood and coiled around the hand gracefully, moving against the gentle strokes. The white hared professor continued to smile absently.
Tiring of the spectacle, the potions master cleared his throat. Dumbledore cast him a sidelong look, curiosity in the twinkling eyes.
"About the girl," Snape pressed. He looked mildly agitated.
"Hmm? Oh yes. We'll have to do something about that won't we?"
"Clearly," came to muttered undertone.
"Madame Pomfrey's first, I think. In the morning we'll find out where it is she came from."
Snape looked mildly horrified as he paced the confines of the room. His voice remained level though it seemed to Luna that he wanted to raise it.
"You're not suggesting she stay here."
Dumbledore's reply was still soft, but the authority in it was unmistakable. It was something Luna recognized immediately, she had spent much time in royalty, and though not a royal, Dumbledore held an air of nobility about him. It told of trials overcome, and battles won; through wit, not brute force.
"Only for the night, Severus. Not to worry..."
There was a word from Dumbledore and Luna watched as a stretcher was conjured beneath Usagi. Slowly Usagi floated into the air on the frame as Severus whirled to go, rebellion in his step and stance. Ember eyes fastened on the Headmaster with an alarmed look.
Only for the night?
No.
They needed a haven.
Hogwarts was the only place they could be safe.
That was why they were there.
No.
They could not leave.
"No."
The adamant voice halted Snape in his tracks and Dumbledore's head snapped up to search the room. Finding no one other than Snape, the unconscious girl and a black cat; his eyes rested in the feline; they were intensely bright it seemed, behind those spectacles.
Snape was back inside the room, also staring at Luna intently. The door shut soundlessly behind him in a gesture. He glared at Luna who stared at Dumbledore.
The silver-bearded man stood once more, keeping his gaze riveted on the cat, walked around the desk to face her and bent afresh. She watched in return, in an unblinking amber gaze. Snape - unnoticed by the pair - scowled.
"Lady...?" the wizard inquired gently. There was patience and obligation in his eyes. Luna allowed him to stroke her again once, before moving away to stand. Her eyes flickered to the princess lying on the still floating stretcher.
Something in her seemed to wilt and both men present in the room saw it, and then recognized her as more than she appeared.
"No," she said again.
** ** **
He tossed the hair from his eyes and the light caught the brittle planes of his face, the jutting black brows, the dark ovals around the faded orbs - frost on blood - the sliver of cat-eyed pupils in their center. Into the room he stepped; all powerful, all knowing, confident in his terrible strength.
"Tell me," he said, his voice as mellow as butter. "Where is she?"
Luna exerted all her strength to oppose him. The illusion - if it was an illusion - faded. He looked the same, but she could see that he moved more stiffly and he winced as if it hurt him occasionally, just a twitch in his cheek.
Another surprise.
He may have been a wizard - dark and most powerful - very strong, but no more than a man. He was still human, in a way.
She glared even as a tall shape interposed itself between the dark wizard and her. Just as she had put herself between him and Usagi's hiding place.
"Who are you?"
He spoke sharply then, addressing the slim man in front of him - slender and ethereal with long white hair and startling brown eyes. He was beautiful.
Luna stumbled, aghast.
No.
"My name is Artemis," he said bluntly, though he was deathly afraid Luna knew, "And you will go no further than this."
Voldemort took another step forward, and in front of her, Artemis quailed. His presence was overwhelming. The halted movements, the grating speech , the sense of overcoming great obstacles, only added to the potency.
They had never been trained against something like that. It seemed he knew their weaknesses as well as they did. Voldermort raised a hand, his eyes like ice. Luna felt her mouth go dry as sand. Artemis fell back a pace, cowering as though he expected a strike. At that the dark Lord looked contemptuous, which struck worse than any blow.
Luna clenched her fists.
He had done nothing and already they were defeated.
"Speak," he whispered.
The fair man hesitated against the powerful compulsion.
"Imperio!"
Artemis' lips began to make the words.
Luna, still behind him, was outraged suddenly. She reached forward, grabbing onto a slim arm, trying to rouse the white cat. And Artemis gasped when she did.
They were strong.
They had a duty and they were strong.
Luna watched as he threw her a look of gratitude, dashing the mist from his eyes.
"No!" he cried, and drew himself up.
Ember and bloodstone locked and Luna could see the Dark Wizard was shocked into stillness, as Artemis showed his strength; the strength - not of an equal - but of one who would never give up. Someone who possessed as much - if not more - sheer willpower that Voldermort himself.
All in the name of loyalty, and love, and light.
It disconcerted the Lord momentarily and he halted, both surprised and intrigued, for a long time his eyes searched the pair of guardian cats, then they fixed on Luna thoughtfully.
"Perhaps the weaker will serve," he said, meeting her eyes. "Come forward. Speak to me."
** ** **
"My name is Luna," she said, without preamble. "The girl you have over there is Usagi Tsukino, and she is my charge."
Snape's eyes followed the inclination of the furry head over to the sleeping blond and Dumbledore seemed to sigh. Without a word he moved over to his chair and sat heavily, watching the cat on the desk in resignation. He looked suddenly old to her.
"I think you have a tale to tell us, Lady Luna."
The stretcher lowered itself once more onto the floor as Snape also settled himself down to wait, though he chose to remain standing. It suited him not to sit. He looked like someone who was not easy to relax, and Luna could perhaps understand why, granted the situation.
The midnight cat nodded.
"As I said, I am Luna; the guardian to the Royal family of the Kingdom of the Moon."
Snape snorted and Luna turned to give him a look at the contemptuous sound. It was not complimentary to her declaration. She was what she was, it did not matter to her whether a potions professor called Snape believed that or not. It did not change anything.
"No such thing," he derided. "The legendary Moon Kingdom is just that - a legend."
Luna found herself liking the man less and less.
"Not so."
She looked from Dumbledore to Snape, then back again. Her gaze was not quite pleading, but it held an entreaty to it that both professors could immediately see. She hoped it would be something they could not deny.
"Wizards exist," she said. "Giants, dragons, unicorns, goblins and imps... Magic... Why not a Kingdom on the Moon?"
Across the room Dumbledore chuckled. "A fine point, Lady. Please, go on."
The relief she felt at the plea was immense, and she was a little surprised at it's magnitude.
Her head dipped in inclination.
"Thank you."
Snape glowered with eyes like obsidian ice.
"I guard the royal family, an advisor to the queen-"
"Surely you're not telling us that-" Snape pointed to Usagi, "is a queen."
He looked as though the idea was so preposterous that it bordered on impossible. Luna could also see he was somehow offended too. She did not know how or when she had done that to him, or why he seemed intend on disapproving her words.
"No." she supplied.
Snape dropped his arm, seeming to relax a minute amount. Luna felt a spark of defiance as she continued. Her head lifted in pride.
"She is heir to the throne; she is Princess Serenity."
He reacted as she thought he would. With further contempt. She could see him straighten as he gritted his teeth.
"Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe you told us a moment ago, her name is Usagi."
"And it is," Luna agreed quietly, "but it is also Serenity."
There was a curious sound from the head wizard and Snape jerked his eyes form the guardian cat to him. Dumbledore was watching Usagi inquiringly; the young blond had begin to toss and turn lightly in her sleep. Her eyelids flickering. Dreaming.
"Gods and their ilk often had more than two denominations, Severus," the old wizard murmured idly. Snape spluttered, glaring from Luna to the Professor and back. He stiffened, his body taunt as a bowstring as he rounded on Dumbledore.
"Gods? What-"
"Serenity..." Dumbledore continued, "Selenity... Goddess of the moon... Any relation to our young Princess, Lady?"
Despite her situation and Snape's obvious outrage, Luna found herself smiling. As long as Dumbledore was on their side, they would be safe.
"Yes," she sighed, nodding. Snape looked appalled, obviously torn between further dismissal and outrage that Dumbledore actually believed the little black cat.
"Thought as much." The eyes behind the half-moon glasses narrowed, " Severus, do have a seat, won't you?"
Deflated and at a loss, Snape sat.
"Now, Lady... Could you tell us, why you are here?"
Why there were there? Necessity born of circumstance. Tragedy born of fate. Or perhaps it was destiny, as Luna had once instructed Usagi that it was her destiny to be who she was, that nothing or no one could ever change that. Affliction and sorrow could come as they would, and Usagi would always be cursed to survive somehow, it seemed. It appeared her eternal sorrow was preordained.
What a fool Luna had been.
She took a deep breath, balancing her hammering heart.
"Serenity is the last survivor of the Silver Millennium. She is the last... Senshi."
The wizards looked confused at the foreign word. Of course they would not be familiar with Japanese. There was a silent reprimand on her ignorance again as she halted to explain.
"Senshi - means warrior. She is the Senshi of the moon. Her guardians are- were the Senshi of the solar system. Named for the planets they represented. All Princesses."
"But why is she here?"
Snape again.
"I'm getting to that," Luna snapped.
She was nearing the end of her tether. The subject was delicate, and it pained her to talk of the Senshi as though they were long gone already. They had always been at her side, somehow helping and suggesting when needed. She valued their support, their friendship, their skills. That they were gone forever terrified her if she thought on it too much. That she had not done something to save them tormented her more so.
Dumbledore had stood again, appearing quite restless for his age. He was standing over Usagi in concern, watching her fluttering eyelids. "Were, Lady?"
Luna felt her heart lurch. How perceptive of the old man. She nodded.
"They- they are dead. There were killed by a.. a dark.. man... he looked..."
She stopped and gazed at Usagi for a long while. The Moon Princess would survive. She had to. As the last - and she was the last - it was her legacy to carry on. Luna only hoped that she would find new hope somewhere in her heart; without hope Usagi was lost.
"He was evil," she said simply at length. "He told us his name was Voldemort. That was when I knew we should come here."
** ** **
"I am Lord Voldemort. You will tell me where she is hidden."
The pressure of his will was all encompassing and Luna looked as though the weight of a tree had fallen onto her shoulders, and that she had no defense - except her innate stubbornness. She staggered away from Artemis. Her face was stark against the darkness of her hair; her hand trembled so much when she pointed that it was hard to tell where she was pointing to.
Voldemort looked into the shadows behind the defiant pair, then back to Luna, then to Artemis.
"Ah," he said. "I understand. Bring her to me."
Luna's hand dropped to her side, her heart aching with the magnitude of what she had just done. She backed further still.
"I will not," she said, her voice breaking.
The tall elven man moved to stand in front of her again, casting a glance back at his affection.
"Go," he whispered harshly. "Leave. Take Usagi. Do it now."
Voldemort lifted a hand, saying 'stay!' and Luna went still, too caught to move. He turned to Artemis. "You would dare defy 'me'!"
But the taller man just narrowed his eyes fiercely, stepping forward. "I will have my will, even over you, 'Lord Voldemort'. Go no further!"
His soft-spoken words disguised an old power that went beyond even the time of wizards, to a fallen kingdom, lost, but never forgotten. And that power shook Voldemort from head to toe. He struggled but could not move. Then, not looking at her, Artemis whispered again, "Luna, run! While I hold him I can't escape."
Luna stood mesmerized for a moment, before Voldemort moved a step, forcing all his will into moving his feet. The ebony tresses tumbled as the woman shook the power off as much as she could.
Another step, and Artemis cried out.
Luna backed away almost against her will, taking one last look at Artemis before retreating to the shadows, where a half conscious Usagi was waiting.
"Usagi!" she shook the her friend urgently and Usagi moaned in response. "You have to move Usagi! Get up!"
She glanced back to see Voldemort still moving, taking one pain filled step after another, drawing ever closer. His face as a mask of fury as Artemis slowly wilted.
"Usagi!"
Her voice was thick, as Usagi stirred at last and blinked open bloodshot eyes. They looked lifeless and glazed, but at least they looked awake.
"C'mon, Usagi!"
The blond girl blinked again, casting her gaze back to Artemis. Luna saw and tugged her to her feet.
"We must stay alive," she hissed. But Usagi was already resisting, as the innate need to help her advisor came to the forefront of her dazed mind.
"That's Artem-"
"I know! And we must go! Or this will be for nothing!"
Then another voice entered the conversation. "No, girl. You go nowhere."
They both froze, staring at the dark wizard who had a face filled with triumph and bitterness both. He was so close...
Usagi trembled, a tremor passing through her body as she took her first step forward to him, as he compelled her to.
It was so easy, simply a step, and then another. And perhaps after that, it would be all over. She could rest.
And her friends?
She frowned. Her friends... What of them?
Just a few steps forward, reach into her pocket, give him the crystal, and then freedom. The sight of that freedom, however unattainable it seemed, was something she could not give up.
And those outside... What of them? Those who were fighting for her and her survival as she stumbled closer to the enemy - the one responsible - what of them?
Just a step, and she could be free. No longer bound by destiny, fate could be damned. She would be free. All ties could be cut. Just a step....
And then, he would have what he had come for. There would be not further use for her friends.
No more. The thought was so brief, it was just a flicker, a slight change in direction, a passing movement that sent images to the deepest part of Usagi's dazed mind.
No more. What then?
Then she wavered.
Voldemort stood before her, struggling still and Usagi saw him. She saw the ruin in him. She saw the withered hands, smelt the musty scent that pervaded the room; the dry smell of aging flesh and human decay.
But he was a monster; and it was that simple turn, that brief flicker that allowed Usagi to see that. And recognize him for what he was.
She stopped.
"No," she whispered.
Artemis pushed himself to his feet, as a tiny hope flared within him - she did have the will after all. Smiling to himself, he reached beyond his despair, calling up the last reserves of his strength.
"Leave them!" he commanded, using the power as he had never used it before. It struck Voldemort like a blow and he flung up a crooked arm, the way a bird might shield itself with it's wing. A look of disbelief passed over his face. "I cannot move," he said in wonderment. The muscles in his jaw were like granite.
"Go!" Artemis screamed. "Do as you're meant to Luna! I can't hold him for long!"
Usagi had tears streaming down her face, even as Luna's own eyes filled with moisture. The Moon Princess seemed smaller, but there was a furious resolve, a determination to amend for all her failures.
"I'll fix this," she said. Then Usagi turned to Voldemort saying with simple dignity. "Nothing will stop me."
Then, Luna pulling her, she fled.
There was a faint labored jeer behind her as she ran, trying to remain lost in the task of placing on foot ahead of the other.
"Nothing? Let me tell you about my terror-guard; my Dementors... They will deal with you and yours."
An agonized cry followed not long after, and ahead of Usagi, Luna stumbled, though did not slow.
But in that instant, they both knew.
Artemis....
The echoing whisper through the air seemed to chant: "Avada Kedavra."
It was almost intangible, softer than the night breeze, but both Lunarians seemed to hear it and both were filled with a sense of dread at the words, thought they did not know why.
"I will break you!" came the scream then, as the laughter echoed behind them.
"I will find you, take the crystal, and then I will break you both!"
And they fled, panting and crying, out of the enclosure and into the night, praying that the worst was over.
Neither were prepared for the anguish - blood or sacrifice - that was to come...
** ** **
He awoke in his sweat-soaked bed, scar burning and aching with a vengeance, barely biting back the scream that had risen in his throat.
Lying there for a moment was all he could do, curled in a ball with his arms braced to ward off the sights and sounds that still resonated inside his skull. The metallic taste of blood still rung on his lips, he could still feel the splattered mud and water in his clothes.
They were all dead... those celestial warriors...
And then... they had run... Amidst all that blood...
The ivory rib sticking into the night air...
He gasped a deep breath, pulling himself from the bed, and stumbling toward the window.
Those eyes... so blank... lifeless... and that blood...
The still bodies... fuku's torn... limbs at odd angles...
Trembling hands fumbled desperately with the catch before finally managing to slam the window open.
The fear and silence... permeated the air... a mist thicker than the falling rain...
And running blood...
And that laughter... Voldemort's laughter...
Harry quivered.
He fell to his knees and rested his cheek against the window frame, trying to alleviate the burning in his scar and gasping lungfulls of clean spring air deep into his shuddering body, never even noticing the tears on his face.
TO BE CONTINUED....
In: Amissus in Hogwarts.
There are some new encounters in Hogwarts... Making some students curious... While Usagi is trapped in her nightmares, and so is Harry....
OKAY!! I'm looking for a little help with this fic... I'm new to writing HP fanfiction, and I'm terrified of getting characters OCC... I really want to get them right... So if there's anyone out there who'd be willing to give some chapters of mine a look over and tell me if they seem up to scratch character wise, I'd be eternally grateful. *Bows* HP fans who know the characters...? *Looks around*
Opening quote is taken from De Profundis - My favorite piece of writing of all time. An essay by Irish writer Oscar Wilde. De Profundus is a long affecting piece written entirely on sorrow and loss born out of his period of imprisonment. It's one of the most stunning pieces of writing I've ever read... This fic is heavily influenced by it. ^__^
'Memento Sorstis - (Latin) Remember Destiny. (Chapter title)
"Imperio!" (Latin) The Imperius curse (You all know that one from the books anyway) Imperio being the Latin for 'command' or 'demand'
Avada Kedavra - The killing curse. - it is forbidden and punishable by imprisonment in Azkaban. It is said to be unstoppable with no counter-curse, though Harry survived it as a child.
Some Replies n' stuff.... ^__^;;;
Firstly... Thank you for those reviews! *Stares in awe* Wow.... *Looks scared* I didn't think that many people would read this... Now I'm terrified though. I hope you all know that. The rest of the story is never up to the quality of the first chapter... *Sighs* Might as well plod on though.
Please leave a review, it helps authors a lot in their writing to know the someone actually respects them enough to leave a comment; however brief. (Even if it's only to tell me it sucks... I already know that though.)
*Shakes her head* Nonono... I haven't read book 5 yet either... It's not out for a while yet. I read an interview where Ms. Rowling actually said it could be delayed. *Sob* It's called Harry Potter and Order of the Phoenix.
But you see, the problem is, if the book comes out whilst I'm still writing this fic.... In the vernacular "I'm screwed."
I think I'll have it set in Harry's final year/s. Perhaps year 6 or 7.... And just call it AU instead.....
^__^
I have some people telling me that this should be Snape/Usagi... others are telling me to go for a triangle (Which I have to admit I'm partial to) others still have e-mail me with Draco/Usagi all the way... And then there's all the Harry/Usagi fans too...
*Looks dizzy*
Don't get mad anybody, or offended.... O__o;;
This fic is for me first and foremost... So, I'm gonna pair her with whomever I want to. Or not at all. This fic is not romance based. That I will tell you right away. Perhaps there will be some, but Usaig is hurt, and grieving.... Give her time people!
I'm a big Snape fan, I have nothing against him. I think he has so much depth, you could drown. I love to write him. He's so much fun! He's a snobbish, suave, shady character, and you can never tell what is going on inside his head. I adore that! *Huggles Snape*
I'm also a huge Draco fan. *Sigh* How could I not? That attitude he has going is just so.. likable. *Glomps poor Draco* And he's so magnificently flawed too. I think that's what I like best. He has flaws, lots of em'.
But, my favorite is still Harry P. himself. I is lovin' im to bits, I am. *Grin* He has so much courage, and so much heart. He's been through a significance of sorrow, and he doesn't allow it to rule him, what's there not to admire? *Bows in awe of Harry*
UtenaAnthyAntics.... *Giggle* Trust me, it's not worth begging over. But here you go anyway.
Erin Finnlaith... Thanks for the chibi chocolate Draco... Anything with that Slytherin on it has to be tasty, ne? ^__~ Hope this was okay for you. (And if you are a Draco fan, there's a treat coming up in a few chapters for you. ^__^)
EternalMoonPrincess... Wow... *Blushes* I wish... Nope though. Writing is just a hobby for me. ^__^ I wouldn't have the patience to even consider anything longer than an average fic. *Glomp* Thank you though! Lol! I'm a huge fan of Amelia Atwater-Rhodes by the way. ^_^ (And taking your suggestion into account, you're right... So, I've upped the rating a tad. Thanks!)
Teardrop, Thank you.... Now I'm curious about Hearts of Ice.... Must go have a look-see. ^__^
Cosmos.... ^__^ Yeah... I love doing that too. It might be a while before certain characters find out who she is though.
Bunny Winner.... Thank you! I'm sure your fics are wonderful... Don't put yourself down.
And to Bell and Firefly-chan... and becky, and Fate's Child (Luv the name.^_^), alexz, Amanda, nicole, andrea, elisabeth, PantherRose, LightningBug, Dilkara(Like that name too...Better than Rowling...?! I wish!)kat (He does look a little like Mamoru, ne?).... Thank you!!
craza2k... *Bows* Thank you too.... I hope the rest are up to scratch.
Sapience... *Giggles* Yes! Parvenu! I couldn't call him an outright snob could I? I like his character too much for that... Parvenu was my way of... um.. skipping around it. ^_^
Kaz... I try to keep my stuff away from 'typical' if I can. So hopefully this won't be that. *Crosses her fingers* I'm not fond of cliché... Unless it happens to be written well, which can happen too.
Finally... *Glomps Latifah* Hey girl! Whassup!? *Grin* Thanks for the review! I didn't know you liked HP... or SM! Why didn't you tell me!? Oh! And that piccie...? It's on it's way.
*Huggles n' pocky*
And maybe tell me what you think...? I'm worried about this fic going wrong.
Orin.
